AUTO ACCIDENTS WITH LARGE TRUCKS

A trucking accident occurs when a large truck and trailer collides with other vehicles or pedestrians.

Trucking accidents take place every year, and they are more common than most people assume. In the US, approximately 500,000 trucking accidents occur every year, and of these accidents around 5,000 result in loss of life. Even though truck drivers receive far more training and are taught to be cautions drivers, one out of every eight accidents is a truck driving accident. This is due to a variety of reasons:

large truck sizes,

massive loads,

complex dynamics of the truck,

drivers feeling fatigued, or tired.

There are many differences between car accidents and truck accidents because there are many rules that apply solely to truck accidents and not car accidents. The federal government heavily regulates the truck industry: trucking companies and truck drivers. Truck drivers are required by law to have a special license and undergo specific training. They must complete a specialized training program on how to handle and drive their trucks safely, and how to load and unload the truck.

If you have been in a truck accident and the truck driver did not complete his specialized training or does not have the specific law required license, then you can bring suit against the truck driver for a violation of these laws. Our attorneys may also be able to file suit against the trucking company for bodily injury or death, if they failed to check the truck driver’s credentials. This option is unavailable for car accidents.

You can also file suit against the trucking company and the driver if you discover that the truck driver has been on the road longer that permitted by law. The “hours of service law” limits the number of hours a truck driver can continuously be on the road. A truck driver is permitted to drive a maximum of 11 continuous hours in a 14-hour workday, after which they are required to take a mandatory 10-hour rest period.

Furthermore, truck drivers are required by federal law to carry certain minimum limits of protective insurance coverage, which is typically much more than a regular car carries. Due to this, there is generally much more monetary compensation available to the injured party’s. It is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced truck accident attorney at our office about your case because he or she will ensure that you receive all of the compensation that you are entitled to. Our attorneys will able to evaluate your case and advise you on the best legal options available to you.

If you have been hurt, call (209) 464-8000 to speak with a Stockton accident attorney today.